Washington, D.C. -- Today, President Obama is expected to nominate Senator John Kerry to be the next U.S. Secretary of State.

In response, Michael Brune, executive director of the Sierra Club, issued the following statement:

“Senator Kerry has a remarkable record as a longtime environmental champion and climate leader, and the Sierra Club is encouraged that he has been nominated to take the reins at the State Department.

“As Secretary, Senator Kerry will face numerous issues that are crucial to both the security of our nation and the future of our planet, including critical decisions on the Keystone XL pipeline and the international financing of dirty energy. We are eager to work with him as he brings his commitment to fighting climate disruption to the world stage."